Air Marshal Mehtab Singh Deswal, AVSM, VM takes over as Air Officer Commanding‑in‑Chief of Eastern Air Command.

Indian Air Force Appoints Air Marshal Mehtab Singh Deswal as AOC-in-C of Eastern Air Command

Air Marshal Mehtab Singh Deswal, AVSM, VM, has been appointed today as the Air Officer Commanding‑in‑Chief (AOC‑in‑C) of the Eastern Air Command (EAC) of the Indian Air Force. In this role, he will become one of the senior commanders of the Indian Air Force, overseeing the security and air operations of the vast eastern region of India, which includes Nilgiri, Assam, Meghalaya, Arunachal Pradesh, Sikkim, and the border areas with Bangladesh, Nepal, and Bhutan.

Deswal has held several important command and staff appointments during his 38‑year career, including base commander positions at Indore, Mumbai, and Gwadar, and has contributed to the formulation of national defence strategy.

His profile, decorated with the AVSM and VM, makes him an experienced and respected commander.

The strategic importance of the Eastern Air Command is increasing, especially in view of tensions on the border with China and its role in regional disaster management. On the occasion of his appointment, Air Marshal Deswal said that his main goal is to further strengthen the operational readiness of the EAC, deploy modern aircraft and drone technology, and develop the multi‑domain capabilities of the Indian air power. He pledged to enhance coordination among the armed forces in the eastern region, reinforce joint exercises, and deepen cooperation with local civilians.

The Chief of the Air Staff also welcomed the new appointment and said that Air Marshal Deswal’s deep strategic understanding and leadership skills will play a crucial role in preparing the Eastern Command for future challenges. This change is expected to bring anticipated improvements in the Indian Air Force’s deployment, training, and logistics structure, which will help reinforce national security and regional stability.